Türkiye expands security role in Somalia with advanced military support

Türkiye has taken a more active role in enhancing Somalia’s security, supporting both the country’s administration and military in counterterrorism efforts.

Following a visit by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Ankara, where he met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, it was agreed that the Somali-Turkish Task Force (STGK) will assist Somalia’s army in tactical counterterrorism planning, Caliber.Az reports, citing the Turkish newspaper Türkiye.

Sources emphasized that Turkish forces will not engage in direct combat against the terrorist group Al-Shabaab. However, security measures for the STGK command have been heightened to the highest level.

Türkiye has steadily increased its military support to Somalia. After deploying Bayraktar TB2 drones in 2022, Ankara recently delivered AKINCI attack UAVs via an A400M military transport aircraft. The new drones were operational soon after their arrival.

Additionally, Somalia has entered discussions with Türkiye to acquire T129 ATAK attack helicopters, further strengthening its national security and counterterrorism capabilities.

By Khagan Isayev